Effects of dexmedetomidine on expression of phosphor-CREB in isolated hippocampal neurons of fetal rats

Abstract

Objective To evaluate the effects of dexmedetomidine on the expression of phosphor-cAMP response element binding protein (p-CREB) in isoloated hippocampal neurons of fetal rats.Methods SpragueDawley rats on 16-18 days of gestation were sacrificed and the fetal rats were obtained.The hippocampi of fetal rats were isolated and hippocampal neurons were seeded in culture medium for 8 days.The cells were then divided into 4 groups (n =12 each) using a random number table:control group (group C),dexmedetomidine 0.001 μmol/L group (group D1),dexmedetomidine 0.010 μmol/L group (group D2),and dexmedetomidine 0.100μmol/L group (group D3).In D1.3 groups,dexmedetomidine with the final concentrations of 0.001 μmol/L,0.010 μmol/L,and 0.100 μmol/L was added to the culture medium,respectively,and then the cells were incubated for 3.5 h.The apoptosis in hippocampal neurons was detected by flow cytometry.The expression of p-CREB in hippocampal neurons was determined by RT-PCR and Western blot.Results Compared with group C,apoptosis rate was significantly decreased and the expression of p-CREB was up-regulated in D1.3 groups.Conclusion Dexmedetomidine inhibits apoptosis in isolated hippocampal neurons of fetal rats by up-regulating the expression of p-CREB. Key words: Dexmedetomidine; Cyclic AMP response element-binding protein; Fetus; Hippocampus; Neurons